The Sixth-Annual Organic Hip-Hop Artist Showcase

Every year, the Organic Hip-Hop Conference rallies conscious troops from all over the continent and beyond for a weekend of fighting for better communities through activism, vegetarianism, and music. Sponsored by Difference Makers Non-Profit Organization and Urban America Newspaper, the 2009 edition will kick off Friday with a keynote address and meatless banquet at Liberty City's African Heritage Cultural Arts Center. The list of past speakers is illustrious, including hip-hop legends Brother J of X-Clan, Professor Griff, and KRS-One. And this year's guest of honor — the cofounder of the Hip Hop Chess Federation, Adisa Banjoko — is an undoubtedly worthy alumnus.

The following night, the conference returns for a Saturday artist showcase featuring some of South Florida's most forward-thinking hip-hoppers. Headlined by Miami's own "Empress of Hip-Hop," Soulflower, with turntable support from Brimstone 127, the stellar lineup will also include MCs La Guardia, Lox tha Rippa, Coppa Stone, Emoni Love, Haiti Blues, and Sekajipo. Plus, poets the Sol Griots, Kimani Kenyata, and the Write Side Poets will jam the mic while both the Sasa African Theatre and the Heart Breakerz B-Girl Crew invade the dance floor. Best of all though, it's a full family affair, so bring your mother, bring your babies, bring everybody.